From Classroom to Dublin: The 32nd Generation’s Final Study Trip
The International Master’s Programme in Business and Organisation (IMB) successfully concluded its traditional final study trip with the 32nd Generation visiting Dublin, Ireland. This study trip, which marks the culmination of the students’ academic journey, offered participants first-hand exposure to some of the world’s leading companies and institutions while strengthening the connection between learning in the classroom and real business practice.
Over the course of the week, the students engaged with a diverse set of organisations, ranging from global technology leaders to major financial institutions, gaining insights into international career opportunities, innovation strategies, and the future of work.
The study trip began at Salesforce, where alumni connections opened the door to an interesting discussion about career progression in a global organisation, the transformative role of artificial intelligence, and the company’s core values as drivers of long-term success.
At DCU Business School, Dr. John McMackin explored the shift towards a skills-first world, emphasising the shrinking half-life of skills, the importance of adaptability, and the ways in which AI is reshaping hiring, careers, and higher education.
The students then visited J.P. Morgan, where they gained valuable perspectives from Adrian Mullett, Head of Innovation Economy, on how the bank supports high-growth sectors through venture and growth funding, while connecting European start-ups to U.S. market opportunities.
The visit to Fideuram Asset Management Ireland (FAMI) provided insights into wealth and asset management, where Matteo Cattaneo (CEO & Managing Director) and Paolo Batori (Head of Global Bonds) highlighted the significance of disciplined decision-making, ESG integration, and the global relevance of UCITS funds.
At Google Ireland, IMB alumna Bruna Ignac and her colleagues showcased the role of Dublin as Google’s EMEA headquarters. Discussions centred on international career paths, Google’s strategy in Ireland, and the transformative applications of AI across industries.
The final stop was Microsoft, where alumni and senior leaders offered a candid look at AI as an enterprise-ready platform. Students learned how frontier firms integrate AI into employee experience, customer engagement, and core processes, as well as the importance of curiosity, resilience, and continuous learning as professional traits.
This year's programme not only strengthened the students’ understanding of global business dynamics but also allowed them to connect with IMB alumni now working in leading international organisations. The new findings gained by the students during the study trip will be incorporated into articles for a monograph to be published as part of the Portorož Business Conference in November 2025. The students will also present their research to the Slovenian business community at the conference.
